Looking for Volunteers

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Countywide | Auburndale | Babson Park | Bartow | Davenport | Dundee | FortMeade | Frostproof | Haines City | Homeland | Kathleen | Lake Alfred | Lake Wales | Lakeland | Plant City | Polk City | Winter Haven

Countywide

ADULT DAY HEALTHCARE CENTERS

Assist staff with arts and crafts, games, serving and cleaning up after meals, one to one visits with clients who have become physically challenged. This program of the Elderly Services Department also provides respite for the caregiver. PHONE: 534-5320

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

Florida Gulf Coast Chapter needs office assistance and help distributing information throughout the county and at health fairs. Bilingual support group facilitator also needed. PHONE: 292-9210

AMERICAN RED CROSS

Volunteers needed for: Disaster services _ shelter managers, damage assessment, mass care; Disaster Action Team _ respond after-hours to single-family house fires; Health and Safety Services _ course instructors, classroom set-up, equipment maintenance. All training is free. PHONE: 294-5941, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., or PHONE: 888-220-9118

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

Road to Recovery needs volunteers to help cancer patients get to and from cancer treatments. Look Good, Feel Better program needs cosmetologists to work with women undergoing cancer treatment. Office help also needed. PHONE: 688-2326, Ext. 116

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS

Looking for enthusiastic volunteers at least 16 years old who have an interest in helping children. Programs start at just nine hours per month. Activities can include visiting the library, playing baseball, planting flowers or renting a movie. PHONE: 682-5191

CANTEEN OUTREACH

A program of the Salvation Army to educate and encourage the homeless and those at risk of homelessness in seeking assistance. The Salvation Army Disaster Canteen will visit homeless camp sites and serve sandwiches and snacks, offer fellowship and educate on services. PHONE: 853-2214, Ext. 230

CATHOLIC CHARITIES

People of all ages invited to bring their gifts, talents and ideas to help feed, clothe and care for the needy in a variety of programs. PHONE: 686-7153

CITIZEN CPR

Volunteer at health fairs and special community events. PHONE: 680-1277

DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE, PROBATION & COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS

Assist with community supervision of juveniles and their families. Jennifer Haynes PHONE: 519-8591

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN

Volunteer EMTs drive ambulances and provide emergency coverage for special events. WHEN: Flexible hours. PHONE: 519-7410

FELLOWSHIP DINING/NUTRITION PROGRAM

Volunteers needed to help with the delivery of meals at sites throughout the county. Recreational volunteers needed at the congregate sites to assist with games and crafts. PHONE: 534-5320

FIREFIGHTERS

Respond to fires, rescue calls and other emergencies. Free annual physical and training. PHONE: 519-5300 or contact nearest Polk County Fire Station.

FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL

Recruiting men and women to join its volunteer branch. Larry E. Coggins Jr., PHONE: 888-632-6859, Ext. 553

FLORIDA TRAIL ASSOCIATION

Workers of all ages needed to maintain existing network of hiking trails, to continue construction on the Florida National Scenic Trail and to start new trails on Polk’s Environmental Lands. PHONE: 877-HIKE-FLA

4-H LEADERS

Help youth develop leadership skills and serve their communities. PHONE: 519-8677, Ext. 110

GIRL SCOUTS _ HEART OF FLORIDA COUNCIL

Seeking both men and women for a variety of areas including troop leaders, Get Real! mentors (working with at-risk girls), cookie chairs, special events, recruitment, annual giving campaigns and advisors. PHONE: 688-7648, Ext. 121

GET REAL! MENTORING PROGRAM

Girl Scout program needs women 18 and older as mentors for at-risk middle school girls in Lakeland, Bartow and Lake Alfred areas. Linda Houghton, PHONE: 688-7648, Ext. 107.

GOOD SHEPHERD HOSPICE

Volunteers needed for speakers bureau and community relations, fund-raising/event committees, shifts in the Lakeland thrift shop, office work, Care Center patient support/activities, home visitations. Locations in Polk, Highlands, Hardee counties. Training provided. PHONE: 297-1880

GUARDIAN AD LITEM PROGRAM

Children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect need someone to represent their best interests. The program needs volunteers to ensure the needs of the children are being met and to speak up for them in court proceedings. Training includes classroom instruction. Volunteers are background screened and should have good communication skills. PHONE: 534-4605

GULF COAST COMMUNITY CARE

Volunteers 21 and older needed by the Special Friends program to mentor children at risk for abuse and/or neglect. The program serves children ages 3-17 throughout Polk County. 5925 Imperial Parkway, Suite 130, Mulberry. PHONE: 904-3000, Ext. 124

HEALTHY FAMILIES

Stand-by baby sitters needed to assist at family programs or training workshops for parents in Lakeland or Winter Haven. PHONE: 534-6089

HOMELESS COALITION OF POLK COUNTY

Office volunteers needed one day a week to help with mass mailing. PHONE: 687-8386, 534-0801

INDEPENDENTLY YOURS

Volunteers needed to perform services that allow clients of the Elderly Services Department to live in their home with dignity and respect. PHONE: 534-5320

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT

Looking for volunteers who want to inspire students in kindergarten through 12th grade by setting aside 30-90 minutes for five to six classroom visits. PHONE: 603-0254

KEEP POLK COUNTY BEAUTIFUL

Serve on education, clean-up and public relations committees. Volunteers also needed to assist with special events and general office work. Volunteer groups needed for Adopt-A-Road program. PHONE: 533-8423

LAKES EDUCATION/ACTION DRIVE

Volunteers needed year-round for either a couple of days on on an ongoing basis. PHONE: City of Lakeland Adopt-a-Lake, 834-3307; Lakeland Clean & Beautiful, 834-3306; Keep Winter Haven Beautiful, 291-5662; Keep Polk County Beautiful, 533-8423; LE/AD, 221-5323

LELAND MINISTRIES

Training available to help juveniles and support their families. A variety of opportunities open from mentoring offenders, addicts and their families to stocking the warehouse. PHONE: 533-1675

LOCAL ADVOCACY COUNCIL

Volunteers needed to serve on a council that reviews possible human-rights violations concerning clients of state agencies such as individuals in foster homes, mental health facilities and group homes. Training provided. After screening, members are appointed by the governor. Jetta Gardner, PHONE: 619-4154 in Lakeland or 800-342-0825

LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM

Seeks to improve the quality of life of frail, vulnerable elders who live in long-term care settings.

PHONE: 863-413-2764

MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION

The non-profit organization that fulfills wishes for children who have been diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses seeks volunteers. Assist in fulfilling wishes, fund raising, special events and public speaking opportunities. PHONE: 888-874-9474

NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR THE MENTALLY ILL POLK COUNTY INC.

Needs volunteers to assist in educational programs, fund-raisers, special events and office assistance in Lakeland and Winter Haven. PHONE: 616-9642

PACE CENTER FOR GIRLS

Prevention/intervention program for at-risk girls in sixth through 12th grades needs volunteers to tutor, work as classroom aides and in other areas. PHONE: 688-5596

POLK COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Translators, clerical help, medical professionals, greeters, receptionists needed in Bartow, Auburndale, Lakeland, Haines City and Lake Wales. Hours are flexible. Training provided. PHONE: 519-7900, Ext. 1077

POLK COUNTY LEISURE SERVICES

Movie in the Park refreshment attendants needed monthly at locations county-wide. PHONE: 534-6089.

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

For a list of volunteer opportunities, call 534-6681 or visit www.polksheriff.org.

POLK EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Volunteers in Take Stock in Children visit students once a week at school, build relationships, help identify goals and encourage them to stay on a positive path. Program gives at-risk students hope by providing them with a college scholarship. PHONE: 519-8077, 519-8076

POLK MENTORING ALLIANCE

The coalition of 23 agencies needs mentors to encourage and care for students in a one-on-one relationship. Training provided. PHONE: 534-0636

POLK SCHOLASTIC CHESS INC.

Volunteers needed to help out at tournaments held at The Lakeland Center as well as chess coaches at schools. PHONE: 984-3036

RAINFALL MONITORS

Volunteers Improving Polk needs monitors to record rainfall at their homes. PHONE: 534-6089

REACH TO RECOVERY

The American Cancer Society is looking for volunteers for this program comprised of breast cancer survivors who visit newly diagnosed patients. Training provided. PHONE: 688-2326, Ext. 116

READ POLK

Polk Opportunity for Literacy and Knowledge needs literacy tutors to help teach adults, one-to-one, to read English. No experience necessary. Applicants receive free one-day training. PHONE: 519-9199 in Bartow, 676-5767 in Lake Wales, 802-1512 in Lakeland, 293-0559 in Winter Haven or Auburndale, toll-free 877-280-READ

RESOURCE CENTER FOR WOMEN

Volunteers needed to assist in clerical support, fund-raising and donation center. PHONE: 294-5318 to contact offices in Lakeland and Winter Haven.

RETIRED AND SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Adults 55 and older can use their life experience and skills to answer the call of neighbors in need. Volunteer at least a few hours a week to solve community problems. PHONE: 534-6729

RIDGE RANGERS

Search for rare plants and animals; help install fence; remove non-native, invasive plants; install boundary signs; enter data critical to the study of rare species. PHONE: 863-699-3742

SANTA CLAUS CLUB

All-volunteer group associated with The Department of Children and Families distributes new Christmas gifts to needy children, helps with an Easter Egg Hunt for foster children and provides clothing and miscellaneous purchases. PHONE: 619-4100, 815-3451

SCORE

Service Corps of Retired Executives needs volunteers three or more hours per month for duty in the office and/or help with business counseling. SCORE will train volunteers in any and all facets of business counseling. PHONE: 619-5783, 646-2752

SHARE POLK COUNTY

SHARE volunteers assist individuals as well as larger community projects. SHARE promotes community service volunteerism and low-cost food for volunteers. There are 25 SHARE sites throughout Polk County. PHONE: 800-536-3379

SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS

Opportunities include Thrift Center helpers, shelter assistants, adoption volunteers, wellness clinic assistants, office support, event support and more. Training provided. PHONE: 646-7722, Ext. 112

SPECIAL FRIENDS

Mentoring program enhances the lives of children who are at risk for abuse and/or neglect by matching children 3-17 with adult volunteers.

PHONE: 686-0721

SUSAN G. KOMEN BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION

Recruiting board members and volunteers, including breast cancer survivors, for Speaker’s Bureau, marketing, newsletter/graphic design, treasury/finance and Race for the Cure planning. PHONE: 877-506-6927

TOYS FOR TOTS

Pack toys for needy children of Polk and Hardee counties, answer phones, pick up toys and do general ``angel’’ work. PHONE: 292-8687

UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

The volunteer center needs theater arts volunteers, meal delivery persons, family nurturers, one-to-one mentors, juvenile justice mentors and youth motivators. PHONE: 648-1515

USA FREEDOM CORPS

Search more than 60,000 organizations to find volunteer opportunities in hometowns, across the country or around the world at www.usafreedomcorps.gov.

VISTE

Volunteers in Service to the Elderly helps senior citizens to continue living independently in their own homes. Training provided for volunteers.

PHONE: 284-0828

VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

VITA provides free income tax preparation to those who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit. Volunteers needed for many types of positions. Training provided. PHONE: 413-3094, 413-3095

WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA AREA AGENCY ON AGING

Seeks members for its Advisory Council to represent the agency on projects in the areas of health promotion, transportation, intergenerational activities, public hearings and focus groups to determine funding priorities. PHONE: 800-336-2226, Ext. 251

WORLD HERITAGE

The non-profit student exchange program seeks area representatives to plan an annual student orientation, meet with high schools, provide counseling, screen host families and meet with students on a monthly basis. PHONE: 800-785-9040

Auburndale

ANCHOR HOUSE MINISTRIES

Looking for volunteers in various areas.

PHONE: 665-1916

CHRISTIAN DISASTER RESPONSE

Help with clerical work, preparing and packing disaster relief materials for shipment to disaster sites around the world. Opportunities for overseas disaster relief. LOCATION: No. 209 1902 Barton Park Road PHONE: 967-4357

EAST AREA ADULT SCHOOL

Volunteers needed to assist with a variety of activities. Included are programs assisting individuals who have limited English speaking skills as well as remedial programs for individuals with limited academic skills who would benefit from one-on-one tutoring. All volunteers must complete the Polk County School Board “Volunteers in Polk Schools” application. Forms available from any school. LOCATION: 300 E. Bridgers Ave. PHONE: 965-5475

FRIENDS OF BAYNARD HOUSE

Established as a way for supporters to contribute time, talent and resources to the continued refurbishment and use of historic Baynard House. Volunteers may serve as tour guides, donate collectibles or family heirlooms to be displayed at special events and assist in coordinating projects and functions. PHONE: 965-5545

GENESIS ZOOLOGICAL CENTER, INC.

Wildlife rehabilitation facility. Volunteers needed to clean, mow, carpenter, etc. Donations of building material, food and other items also needed. PHONE: 965-8706

POLK ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION RESOURCE CENTER

Needs volunteers to assist with trail clean-up, gardening and exhibit maintenance, also general office work and docents. PHONE: 965-5479

WINTER HAVEN/AUBURNDALE ADULT LITERACY COUNCIL

Seeking volunteers to tutor adult non-readers. A free seven-hour training is offered and no other teaching experience is required. PHONE: 293-0559

Babson Park

TIGER CREEK NATURE PRESERVE

Help The Nature Conservancy maintain a native landscape garden around its office Tuesday and Friday mornings. PHONE: 635-7506

RIDGE AUDUBON SOCIETY

Volunteers needed for trail blazing and maintenance, exotic species removal, Nature Center organization and operations, program assistance.

LOCATION: 200 N. Crooked Lake Drive. PHONE: 638-1355

Bartow

BARTOW CENTER

The nursing home has many volunteer opportunites in the Activity Department. LOCATION: 2055 E. Georgia St. PHONE: 533-0578

BARTOW REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Opportunities include visiting patients, greeting visitors, making baby baskets, managing the gift shop and working at the information desk. PHONE: 519-1442

ELDERLY SERVICES

Information and Referral Team assistant, activity assistants needed. PHONE: 534-6088

FAMILIES OF POLK COUNTY

Mentors needed to sponsor young people or provide support for families with children in crisis. PHONE: 519-0723

NEW FOUNDATIONS SUPERVISED VISITATION CENTER

Program provides supervised parent-child visitation to allow continued contact between a child and the non-custodial parent or other designated people in a safe environment. Volunteers receive training on monitoring visits and gain experience in the social work field. LOCATION: Polk County Courthouse. Ricardo Huntley, PHONE: 534-4357

PEACE RIVER CENTER

The private, not-for-profit community mental health center has volunteer opportunities in many areas. PHONE: 519-0575, Ext. 1101

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY COOPERATIVE

Needs genealogy clerk and shelf readers. PHONE: 534-6088

POLK COUNTY NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES

Office assistant needed. PHONE: 534-6088

POLK COUNTY RADIO SHOP

Shelter radio communicators, disaster communications specialists needed. PHONE: 534-6088

POLK GOVERNMENT TELEVISION

Video production assistant needed. PHONE: 534-6088

POLK HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Needs sewing project volunteers, docents, data entry clerk, museum ambassadors and intern. PHONE: 534-6088

ROHR HOME (NURSING HOME)

Needs “Deck the Doors” volunteers, bingo caller, weekend receptionist, craft coordinators, readers, field trip volunteers. PHONE: 534-6088

WOMEN’S CARE CENTER

A ministry of the Christian Action Corps needs volunteers for: transportation; clothes closet; assisting residents with cooking skills, baby-sitting and parenting skills. PHONE: 534-3844, 534-3666

Davenport

SUNSHINE FOUNDATION

Share the mission to answer the dreams and wishes of suffering children. Make telephone calls, run errands, host tours, help in the office or as handyman or computer whiz. PHONE: 424-4188, 800-457-1976

Dundee

DUNDEE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Answer phones and greet patrons. LOCATION: 310 Main St. PHONE: 439-3261

HISTORIC DUNDEE DEPOT AND MUSEUM

Volunteers needed to help keep museum open on Saturdays and at least one day a week. LOCATION: 103 Main St. PHONE: 419-3145, 439-1312

Fort Meade

HELP OF FORT MEADE THRIFT SHOP

Sales clerks, cash register attendants, persons to sort and mark goods and pick-up and delivery people. Howard, PHONE: 285-6600

Frostproof

CENTRAL FLORIDA HEALTH CARE

“Reach Out and Read’’ program invites adults and teens, ages 16 years and older, to read to pediatric patients. WHEN: Any time between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. LOCATION: Avon Park, Frostproof, Dundee and Wauchula. PHONE: 452-3008

FROSTPROOF CARE CENTER

Volunteers needed to sort donations, make pickups and deliveries, work in the food room and the thrift store. PHONE: 635-5555

Haines City

CORNERSTONE HOSPICE

Volunteers needed to assist in a variety of ways. A 16-hour training program provided. 901 Johns Ave. PHONE: 888-728-6234

HAINES CITY HEALTH CARE CENTER

Arts and crafts activities needed. LOCATION: 409 10th St. S. PHONE: 422-8656

HEART OF FLORIDA MEDICAL CENTER

Auxiliary has opportunities at information desk, escorts, gift shop, TLC, diagnostic imaging, emergency desk, outpatient/surgery desk, others. LOCATION: 1615 U.S. Highway 27 N. PHONE: 422-4971, Ext. 4284

Homeland

HOMELAND HERITAGE PARK

Docents, people to portray 1880s school teachers needed. PHONE: 534-6088

Kathleen

KATHLEEN AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Volunteers needed to help build and operate an 1890s Florida Cracker Homestead and museum, plan events and catalog artifacts. PHONE: 858-2170

Lake Alfred

LAKE ALFRED CAREER ACADEMY

Tutors, mentors, guest speakers, field trip aides and general office help. Rita Jarrett, PHONE: 295-5988

LIFE CARE CENTER OF WINTER HAVEN

Work with patients in a variety of areas. PHONE: 318-8646

POLK TRAINING CENTER FOR HANDICAPPED CITIZENS, INC.

Volunteers needed for various tasks, especially in the plant nursery and for special events and activities. PHONE: 956-1620

SOUTHERN GARDENS ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

Looking for volunteers who sing, dance, play games, play a musical instrument or enjoy reading aloud, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. PHONE: 956-0411

Lake Wales

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS MINISTRY

Focuses on disabled individuals and their families and friends. Volunteers needed in the office and other areas of service. PHONE: 679-2507

HISTORIC BOK SANCTUARY

Volunteers sought in various capacities including the plant shop, horticulture/conservation, visitor services desk, Pinewood Estate, special events and behind the scenes in offices/clerical positions. PHONE: 676-1408, Ext. 24

LAKE WALES ARTS CENTER

Office work, greeters, docent training, library, curatorial assistance, and other interesting opportunities. LOCATION: 1099 State Road 60 E. PHONE: 676-8426

LAKE WALES CARE CENTER

Volunteers needed for reception desk, office work, Meals on Wheels, repairmen, Thrift Store, food room and group and individual projects. LOCATION: 140 E. Park Ave. PHONE: 676-6678

LAKE WALES DEPOT MUSEUM

Volunteers needed to give tours and help in the office during the day. LOCATION: 325 S. Scenic Highway. PHONE: 678-4209

LAKE WALES FAMILY YMCA

Areas of interest include activities and tutoring in after-school care, front desk, swim instruction, health and fitness. Richard Brannen, PHONE: 676-9441

LAKE WALES LITERACY COUNCIL

Volunteers needed to tutor students interested in bettering their life skills. LOCATION: 140 E. Park Ave. PHONE: 676-5767

LAKE WALES LITTLE THEATRE

Volunteers needed to help build and paint sets, usher, park cars and assist with hospitality. Fran Alvarez, PHONE: 678-0778

LAKE WALES MEDICAL CENTERS

Challenging volunteer opportunities available. Orientation and training required. PHONE: 676-1433, Ext. 6823

LAKE WALES PUBLIC LIBRARY

Shelve books, help with circulation desk, book repair, children’s department and reference desk. PHONE: 678-4004

LAKE WALES SENIOR CENTER

Looking for volunteers. Activities offered include 55 Alive, bridge, pinochle, AARP meeting and more. PHONE: 678-0662

Lakeland

ADOPT-A-LAKE PROGRAM

Pick up trash, install stormwater plaques, remove air potato vines. Equipment provided. Schools, clubs, churches, neighborhood associations, individuals, etc., are welcome to join. PHONE: 834-3307

AGAPE FOOD BANK

Needs workers to sort food and supplies in the warehouse and assist food pantry with orders. PHONE: 665-7074

AQUATEERS

Aquatic volunteers at Gandy Pool help with special events, speaking engagements and daily operations. PHONE: 648-3157

ARTS ON THE PARK

Welcome visitors to the gallery; assist with mailings, receptions and exhibits; or help with special events and concerts. Patrons and handy persons also welcome. PHONE: 680-2787

AZALEA PARK

Retirement community has community service and volunteer opportunities. PHONE: 413-0908

BELLA VISTA MANOR

The senior living facility welcomes volunteers of all ages, especially piano players, singers, craft assistants or those who can spend time with residents. LOCATION: 810 E. Bella Vista. Angela Owens, PHONE: 688-9993

BLOODNETUSA

Volunteers needed for office work in the recruitment department. LOCATION: 3200 Lakeland Hills Blvd. PHONE: 687-8925, 687-9218, 800-683-8355

CAMP FIRE USA

Volunteer opportunities include adult leaders, mentors, Volunteer Youth Corps and more. PHONE: 688-5491

CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE

Provides trained assistance dogs to people with disabilities. PHONE: 800-572-2275, e-mail Max92892@earthlink.net

CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING

Volunteers needed for construction of ramps and minor home modifications for individuals with disabilities. PHONE: 413-2722, 2# or 888-263-6692, 2#

CONSULATE HEALTHCARE

Special caring angels needed to assist senior residents with letter writing, community outings, sing-a-longs, mending, room visits and more. LOCATION: 2020 W. Lake Parker Drive. PHONE: 682-7580

DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS

Volunteers needed to drive a van to the VA hospital and to help with fundraisers. Chapter 28, 303 Veterans’ Ave. PHONE: 687-4885

DOMESTIC ABUSE RESPONSE TEAM

Lakeland Police Department’s Domestic Abuse Response Team seeks volunteer advocates to speak or meet with victims, offer assistance in resources, education, support and follow up. Free domestic and crisis intervention training provided. PHONE: 834-8927, 834-8941

DRUG PREVENTION RESOURCE CENTER

Volunteers needed to organize and distribute outreach materials and help in the office with day-to-day tasks. Angela Padgett Ellison, PHONE: 802-0777

EMERGENCY FAMILY SERVICES

Help needed in the food pantry preparing food bags for families and sorting through clothing donations. PHONE: 686-7153

EXPLORATIONS V CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Share in a hands-on, fun-filled adventure by serving as a docent, assisting with special workshops and programs, birthday parties and special events. LOCATION: 109 N. Kentucky Ave. PHONE: 687-3869, Brenda Paul

FAITH IN ACTION

Volunteers needed for outreach to the senior community. PHONE: Central Lakeland, 682-7249; North Lakeland, 686-0009; Winter Haven, 294-5864

FAMILY FUNDAMENTALS

Looking for dedicated people with a love for children. Everything from greeting visitors to teaching a ceramics class. LOCATION: 1021 Lakeland Hills Blvd. PHONE: 686-1221, Ext. 224

FELLOWSHIP DINING

Help prepare and serve lunch. PHONE: 687-2988

FLORIDA AIR MUSEUM

Volunteers needed for receptionist, administrative assistance, welcome hosts, exhibit maintenance and docents. LOCATION: Sun ‘n Fun Aviation Complex, Lakeland Linder Regional Airport, 4175 Medulla Road. PHONE: 644-2431

FLORIDA BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOME

Placing volunteers in the Family Fundamentals program to work with Christian based pregnancy counseling. PHONE: 688-4981

FLORIDA DANCE THEATRE

Needs data entry, ad sales, marketing, bookkeeping, fund raising, sets, costumes, back-stage help, ushers and help during outreach programs. LOCATION: 305 W. Main St. PHONE: 802-0399

THE FOUNDATION CHARTER SCHOOL

Serves children who are at risk of school failure in grades six through 12. Volunteers needed for tutoring or mentoring individual students. No special skills needed, training provided. PHONE: 682-8111, Ext. 225

HAWTHORNE INN

Volunteers needed for reading, bingo, cards, crafts, music, pet therapy, baby therapy, program leaders, exercise leaders, one-on-one visits and dining room hostess. PHONE: 644-6414

HIGHLANDS LAKE CENTER

Volunteer opportunities for people of all ages. Bingo leaders, folks to do bulletin boards and refreshment carts, dining room hostess, craft leaders and assistants, readers needed. LOCATION: 4240 Lakeland Highlands Road. PHONE: 646-8699

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Committee members for public relations, site selection and resource development needed. Also, many volunteer positions available on the construction site. PHONE: 688-4660, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

IHS OF LAKELAND

Volunteers of all ages welcome; all talents, such as crafts and piano playing, needed. Hours are flexible. LOCATION: 3110 Oakbridge Blvd. E. PHONE: 648-4800

LAKE MORTON PLAZA

Volunteers needed to visit with the elderly, provide services such as mending, arts and crafts assistance, help on trips away from the building. PHONE: 683-1000

LAKE MORTON SENIOR CENTER

Volunteers are needed to assist with bingo on Mondays. The center is looking for barbers, cosmetologists and nail technicians to donate services once a month. Also, those with a special talent or skill are invited to begin a program. PHONE: 687-2988

LAKELAND AREA VISUALLY IMPAIRED PEOPLE

Support group needs volunteers to assist visually impaired people with transportation, paperwork, filing and reading. PHONE: 701-9389

LAKELAND CLEAN AND BEAUTIFUL

Volunteers needed throughout the year to assist with trash collection. Clubs, civic organizations, groups and families are invited to participate. You pick the place and time, supply the volunteers. Equipment supplied. PHONE: 834-3306

LAKELAND REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Assist staff in pediatrics, obstetrics and other areas; also help in gift shop, visitor information, floral delivery, Cancer Center, courtesy tram, Nightingale Nurse, Arts in Healthcare and more. PHONE: 687-1115, 687-1293

LAKELAND HILLS CENTER

Help is needed for room visits, special events and mending. Also to entertain residents with music, singing groups, arts and crafts, dancing, etc. LOCATION: 610 E. Bella Vista. PHONE: 688-8591

LAKELAND VOLUNTEERS IN MEDICINE

Clinic run completely by volunteers. Doctors, nurses, lab techs, x-ray techs, computer specialists and lots of smiling greeters needed. LOCATION: 1021 Lakeland Hills Blvd. PHONE: 688-5846

LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER

Serve as an academic/leadership mentor with students for as little as one hour per week. PHONE: 688-9477

LIFEPATH SOLUTIONS

Volunteers needed to help with special events and Mobile Resource Van activities. PHONE: 292-3210

LIGHTHOUSE MINISTRIES

Volunteers needed for receptionist, office assistant, maintenance, experienced counselors, transportation, experienced case managers, food servers, life skills training, preaching, Bible study, special events, mentoring adoption, teachers. PHONE: 687-4076

THE MANOR AT CARPENTER’S

Volunteers needed for reading, crafts, card games, room visits and to share any special talents. LOCATION: 1001 Carpenter’s Way. PHONE: 859-4249, Ext. 127

NOAH’S ARK OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Teach basic life-skills like reading, math, shopping or cooking to individuals with developmental disabilities. Shoot some hoops, play some ball, go to the ball game or just be a friend. For the more adventurous, help build an accessible single-family home. PHONE: 687-0804 or visit noahsarkflorida.com

OUTREACH CENTER OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Volunteer clothing organizer, office administrator and warehouse assistant needed, as well as financial support. LOCATION: 1022 Lakeland Hills Blvd. PHONE: 686-2227

P.A.L.S.

Patriots Achieving Learning and Success is a mentoring program sponsored by the School Advisory Council of Carlton Palmore Elementary. Mentors are asked to spend 30-45 minutes each week with their student. LOCATION: 3725 Cleveland Heights Blvd. PHONE: 646-6547, 648-3510

PEACE RIVER CENTER

Volunteers needed to assist customers, create displays and sort donations at the Thrift Shoppe, benefiting domestic violence victims and mental health consumers. LOCATION: 4419 S. Florida Ave. PHONE: 647-4224 or 519-0575, Ext. 1101

PIED PIPER PLAYERS

Welcomes volunteers for every area of the theater including set construction, props, costumes, hair/make-up, back stage crew, ushers, tickets takers, box office assistants and, of course, actors. No experience necessary. PHONE: 603-7529

POLK COUNTY ASSOCIATION FOR HANDICAPPED CITIZENS, INC.

Help with activities, tutor or accompany clients on Saturday bowling outings. LOCATION: 1038 Sunshine Drive E. PHONE: 665-3846

POLK MUSEUM OF ART

The Docent Corps conducts tours and serves as teachers and hosts to museum visitors. The Friends assist with education programs, bulk mails, hosting receptions, staff the library and museum shop and assist with special events. Also needed are visitor services/security volunteers, an excellent opportunity for retired police officers or security guards. PHONE: 688-7743, 688-5423

POLK THEATRE

Opportunities include box office, ticket takers, concessions, ushers, stagehands, docents, office assistants and On-Call Angels. Volunteers receive complimentary ticket, soft drinks and popcorn at each event with which they assist. PHONE: 682-7553

PRISON MINISTRY

To volunteer for prison ministry or the Aftercare Mentoring Program, contact Care After Lighthouse Ministry, e-mail Careafterlm@msn.com or write P.O. Box 6932, Lakeland, Fla. 33807

RAPE RECOVERY AND RESOURCE CENTER

Volunteers needed for counseling, community awareness, clerical duties and computer work. LOCATION: 1860 S. Crystal Lake Drive PHONE: 413-2708

READ LAKELAND

Volunteers needed to help adult learners in the Lakeland area, including Bartow and Mulberry. Volunteers are welcome to join at any time. To register or for more information, PHONE: 802-1512

ST. FRANCIS WOMEN’S SERVICES

A prevention program to educate women at risk. Mentors needed to help women as they rebuild their lives. Priscilla, PHONE: 686-7153

SALVATION ARMY

Receptionists, Life Management class teachers, soup kitchen volunteers needed. Also assist children with reading, computers and homework. Carol Alexander, PHONE: 557-0920, 559-9869, 853-2214

SAVANNAH COTTAGE

Seeking volunteers to assist with crafts, bingo, games, playing piano and entertaining. Lori, PHONE: 815-9411

SAVANNAH COURT

Volunteers needed for crafts, card playing, one-on-one reading, dining room assistance, piano playing, manicures, bingo calling and to share special talents. PHONE: 816-1155

SHINE PROGRAM

Volunteers with West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging’s Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE) program provide counseling and assistance to elders and their caregivers about Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care and drug programs. PHONE: 800-336-2226

SUMMERVILLE AT LAKELAND

Give time and talent in activities including card games, crafts, bingo, music, sing-a-longs, pet therapy and companionship. LOCATION: 2111 Lakeland Hills Blvd. PHONE: 688-1126

SUN ‘N FUN FLY-IN

Year-around needs are assistance in the gift shop, maintenance, gardening, cooking, sign shop and aircraft restoration. Special events include Sun ‘n Fun EAA Fly-In, Wings ‘n Things, Aviation Expressions Lecture Series, Destination: Aviation summer camp and more. PHONE: 644-2431

SUNRISE COMMUNITY OF POLK COUNTY, INC.

Provides support and services to adults with developmental disabilities. Volunteers needed to complete small office projects, share creative talents and help with crafts. Charlene Vocelle PHONE: 680-2817, Ext. 23

TALBOT HOUSE MINISTRIES

Opportunities include tutoring, arts and crafts, teachers, doctors, nurses, dentists, mailings, to name only a few. PHONE: 687-8475

TLC RETIREMENT RESIDENCE

The assisted living facility seeks volunteers to share talents in areas of music entertainment, piano playing, card games and crafts of any kind. LOCATION: 747 Bon Air St. PHONE: 688-1196

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA

Volunteers proficient in Excel, Word, Internet Explorer and other programs needed to instruct adults 50 and older in the Senior Scholars program. Brian Beatty, PHONE: 667-7029

VICTIM ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Lakeland Police Department needs volunteers to assist victims of accidents and crimes. Volunteers receive 50 hours of training. Harold Silas, PHONE: 834-6903

WATSON CLINIC

Greeters, escorts, clerical and other volunteers needed. LOCATION: 1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd. PHONE: 680-7416

WEST AREA ADULT AND COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Work with adult students in English for Speakers of Other Languages, Adult Basic Education. LOCATION: 604 S. Central Ave. PHONE: 499-2835

WRITERS, INC.

Promotes literacy by providing pre-school and elementary school children opportunities to develop their skills. Needs volunteers to read to children, assist with serving snacks and working with crafts. PHONE: 686-1221

YMCA READS!

Literacy tutoring program needs volunteers to tutor first- and second-grade students. PHONE: 859-7769

Plant City

FLORIDA BLOOD SERVICES

Clerical help needed registering donors, serving refreshments and helping with special projects. PHONE: 813-632-5433

Polk City

POLK CITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM

The after-school and summer program needs volunteers such as retired school teachers, filing clerk, computer person, reading and math tutors and counselors. PHONE: 984-1615, 660-1009

POLK JUVENILE CORRECTION FACILITY

Volunteers needed to mentor juveniles housed at the facility. PHONE: 984-8707

POLK TRAINING CENTER FOR HANDICAPPED CITIZENS, INC.

A wide variety of opportunities available, including working with plants and trees, maintenance of garden center and facilities, special events, decorating and painting. PHONE: 956-1620

WATER SKI HALL OF FAME

Volunteers needed for receptionist, welcome hostess/host, exhibit maintenance and docents. PHONE: 324-2472

Winter Haven

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

Help cancer patients in Winter Haven. PHONE: 688-2326, Ext. 117

AMERICAN RED CROSS

Volunteers needed for light office work, including answering phones in the office during regular business hours. LOCATION: 147 Ave. A, N.W. PHONE: 294-5941

BRANDYWYNE HEALTH CARE

Volunteers needed for one on one visits, crafts, piano playing and singing groups. LOCATION: 1801 Lake Mariam Drive. PHONE: 293-1989, Ext. 19

CATHOLIC CHARITIES

Sort and bag groceries, sort clothing donations, do general office work. PHONE: 299-7983

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF GREATER WINTER HAVEN

Encourages philanthropy to help solve community problems. Volunteers needed in office to assist with clerical, data input and receptionist duties; also help with special projects, grants research and newsletter publication. PHONE: 298-9020

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Opportunities include retail store clerks, inventory processing, residential construction, high school graduation community service hours, Mondays through Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. PHONE: 292-2256

HEALTHY START COALITION OF HARDEE, HIGHLANDS AND POLK COUNTIES, INC.

Seeking volunteers to assist with clerical duties. PHONE: 297-3043

KEEP WINTER HAVEN CLEAN AND BEAUTIFUL

Volunteer throughout the year to clean up city and lakes. Get a group and pick place and time. Trash bags and gloves supplied. PHONE: 291-5662

MEALS ON WHEELS

Route drivers and kitchen help always needed and welcomed. The organization prepares and delivers 60,000 nutritious meals per year to homebound people in the greater Winter Haven area. LOCATION: 620 Sixth St., N.W. PHONE: 299-1616

POLK COUNTY HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT

Reception area greeter, computer tutors needed. LOCATION: Florence Villa area. PHONE: 534-6089

SPRING HAVEN RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Escort residents to activities and shopping, flower delivery, crafts, games, ice cream parlor, pianist. LOCATION: 1225 Havendale Blvd. PHONE: 293-0072

STREET AUDUBON CENTER

Volunteers needed for trail blazing and maintenance, exotic species removal, Nature Center organization and operations, program assistance. PHONE: 324-7304

TANDEM HEALTHCARE OF WINTER HAVEN

Volunteers of all ages appreciated and needed. A special need for young people between the ages of 13 and 18 who are interested in community service and working with the elderly. LOCATION: 2701 Lake Alfred Road. PHONE: 298-5000

THEATRE WINTER HAVEN

Seeks volunteers for every department, including set construction, electrics, sound engineering, sewing, box office, ushers, clerical. No experience necessary, just a love of theater. LOCATION: Chain of Lakes Complex, 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd. PHONE: 299-2672

VISITORS AND CONVENTION BUREAU

Greeters, office help needed. LOCATION: Cypress Gardens Adventure Park PHONE: 534-6089

WINTER HAVEN HOSPITAL

Challenging volunteer opportunities available at hospital and Regency Medical Center. Orientation and training required. PHONE: 291-6750

WOMEN`S RESOURCE CENTER

Help in the thrift store. Flexible schedules. PHONE: 294-5318

Looking for Volunteers is a list of volunteer opportunities available through Polk County organizations. This list runs the first Monday of each month in the Life section.

To be included, write to Looking for Volunteers, The Ledger, P.O. Box 408, Lakeland, Fla. 33802. E-mail us at features@theledger.com or fax us at 802-7826, attn: Looking for Volunteers.